What Exactly is It?
Flu season typically comes around October-December. This is a common phrase thrown around that indicates the rise of flu-like symptoms to occur. The flu is not something that comes around during these months specifically; in fact, the flu has everything to do with the stress state of your body. During these months your body is undergoing the highest levels of stress. Your immune system can become suppressed, which allows your body to be susceptible to a flu virus.
Changing the Norm
The worst thing to prevent the flu is to receive a flu shot. Research from the CDC, Journal of Medicine, and more have shown study after study why this is true. It does not prevent the flu, but it is guaranteed to inject aluminum and other harmful chemicals into your body. These add stress and toxins to your body, which causes more harmful side effects. When your body is under stress it is also remaining in a fight or flight mode. When your body is in this state, the immune system lowers because it is focused on surviving. Stress increases during the holidays not only emotionally, but also chemically based on the foods that are consumed. To avoid compromising your immune system, following these five steps will point you in the optimal direction for health.
5 Ways to Avoid the Flu Season as a Whole
1. Apple Cider Vinegar/Elderberry
These two boosts the immune system. ACV balances stomach acid and helps your microbiome which makes up 80-90% of your immune system. Elderberry is great for the immune system, high antioxidant, and is high in vitamin C. Both these are great for adults and children.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Diet
This change alone could eliminate almost every flu symptom. When you eliminate foods like sugars and grains, you increase the nutrients your body obtains and lower inflammation. This can be the most effective change to avoid getting the flu.
3. Vitamin D3/Vitamin C
These increase your overall immune health. (When taking Vitamin D3, make sure it also contains K2, magnesium, and Vitamin A/E) Rather than taking supplements for Vitamin C, get this source naturally from foods. A great example is squeezing 3 lemons in your water each day. That is equivalent to the daily amount needed for Vitamin C.
4. Probiotics
Unfortunately, the use of antibiotics has killed a large portion of many people’s healthy bacteria. 80-90% of your immune system is in your gut. Our bodies are more microbiome than we are human cells. It is important to give your body good bacteria within the immune system to help fight off illnesses.
5. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic adjustments increase your CD4 count, which means it increases the health of your immune system. Adjustments also increase your IDA levels which are found within your gut, increasing your immune system and digestive system as well. Adjustments balance stress levels, stimulate the nervous system and allows your body to be in a homeostasis state.
If you live in the Matthews/Charlotte area here in North Carolina, or would like a recommendation to other chiropractors in your area, contact us here. We would love to be in contact with you!